The Editors Forum of Namibia (EFN) has strongly condemned acts that intimidate, harass, or obstruct journalists from carrying out their duties lawfully.

This caution follows verbal abuse directed at a NBC News crew by members of the Former Refugees Repatriation Association camped at the Swapo Party headquarters in the capital.

In a video circulating on social media, the members of the association directed threatening utterances to the news crew, chased them from the campsite and refused to engage them.

In a press statement, EFN says such conduct undermines not only the safety and dignity of individual media workers but also the broader role of the media as a cornerstone of democratic society.

Criticism of the press should be met with dialogue and lawful engagement, not intimidation or abuse, it reads.

The forum further says media plays a vital role in informing citizens, holding power to account and facilitating open and accountable governance.

Freedom of the press enables journalists to gather and disseminate information without fear or favour, contributing to the nation's social, political and economic development.

Stakeholders, political organisations, civil society and the public are called upon to respect the essential work of journalists and media practitioners.

Hostile actions towards journalists, the statement continues, not only jeopardise individual safety but have a chilling effect on press freedom and the free flow of information.

EFN, therefore, urges authorities to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of media personnel covering events and reporting on matters of public interest.